Introduction
This Classic Cheese Pizza is a homemade version of everyone’s favorite comfort food. With a crispy yet chewy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this pizza is simple, delicious, and easy to make from scratch.
Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a party, or a family pizza night, this recipe delivers pizzeria-quality results right from your own oven!
-Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Homemade Dough with Perfect Texture – Crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside.
✔ Rich Tomato Sauce – Balanced with herbs and seasonings.
✔ Lots of Melted Cheese – Classic mozzarella for a stretchy, gooey bite.
✔ Customizable – Add your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
-Ingredients
For the Dough
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
¾ cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Pizza Sauce
1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp sugar
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Toppings
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing crust)
-Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
-2. Make the Pizza Sauce
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm olive oil.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, sugar, and black pepper.
3. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Set aside.
-3. Roll Out the Dough
1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Punch down the dough and roll it into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface.
3. Transfer to a pizza pan or baking sheet.
4. Brush the edges with olive oil for a golden crust.
-4. Assemble the Pizza
1. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce evenly over the dough.
2. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
-5. Bake the Pizza
1. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing.
-6. Serve and Enjoy!
Slice and serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
-Serving Suggestions
With Red Pepper Flakes – For a spicy kick.
With Fresh Basil or Oregano – Adds a fresh, herby touch.
With a Side of Marinara Sauce – Perfect for dipping.
With a Drizzle of Olive Oil or Garlic Butter – Enhances flavor.
-Tips for the Best Cheese Pizza
✅ Use High-Quality Cheese – Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully.
✅ Preheat the Oven Properly – Ensures a crispy crust.
✅ Roll the Dough Evenly – Helps with even baking.
✅ Let the Dough Rise Fully – Gives the best texture.
-Variations to Try
Four-Cheese Pizza – Use mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone, and ricotta.
Margherita Pizza – Add fresh basil and sliced tomatoes.
Spicy Pepperoni Pizza – Top with pepperoni and red pepper flakes.
Veggie Pizza – Add bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives.
-Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze pre-baked pizza for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Bake at 375°F for 5–7 minutes, or heat in a skillet for a crispy crust.
-The Story Behind This Recipe
Cheese pizza is a classic favorite worldwide, known for its simple yet satisfying flavors. This homemade version captures the authentic pizzeria experience, giving you control over fresh ingredients and baking techniques.
Perfect for pizza night with family or friends, this recipe guarantees a delicious, homemade pizza that beats takeout!
-Final Thoughts
This Classic Cheese Pizza is an easy, homemade, and flavorful dish that everyone will love. Whether you keep it simple or customize it with toppings, it’s a go-to recipe for any pizza lover.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a fresh, cheesy, and homemade pizza straight from your oven!